What to notice
Follow the cycle time
A leak near the beginning can guide attention differently from water that appears during pump-out. Dishwasher discharge can enter a disposal or sink drain, so a backup at that connection may look like an appliance leak. The cycle pattern helps choose between appliance service, plumbing, or both; it does not conclusively diagnose either.
Look at accessible boundaries
From outside, note door-edge water, supply-valve moisture, visible hose connections under the sink, and cabinet or floor damage. Do not pull an installed machine forward or remove a panel to gather evidence. Record the model and any displayed code if the label is safely available.
Define who handles each part
Ask whether the provider works on plumbing connections, the appliance itself, or both. Include machine movement, floor protection, hose replacement, drain configuration, reconnecting, and cycle testing in the scope. Confirm who responds if the appliance fault remains after the plumbing connection is repaired.